Procuring a two-wheeler or a car requires a major investment. The very fact that buying vehicles cost so much means that taking good care of them is a matter of utmost priority. There are several methods used by vehicle manufacturers to ensure proper tracking of vehicles in cases of theft and accidents.
Some of the almost universal methods are to use special identification marks and unique vehicle identification numbers, like those on chassis, engine and now in the case of cars. These are mentioned in your vehicle RC and are required when you buy a
motor insurance policy.
What are the chassis and chassis number?
The chassis of a vehicle is the frame around which the vehicle is built. It provides the core structural strength to the vehicle. Since it is the largest and strongest part of the vehicle, it is marked with a special identification number, commonly known as the chassis number. The chassis number is meant to be used in case the vehicle meets an accident or gets stolen. The chassis number is marked in the vehicle registration form with a pencil print and is printed in the vehicle registration certificate as well as
car insurance or
two-wheeler insurance papers, as the case may be.
How to find the chassis number?
Depending upon the type of vehicle, you will have to search around the exposed part of the body and frame of the vehicle to find the chassis number.
- For two-wheelers like scooter or motorcycle, the chassis number will be located either on the handle connection point of the vehicle or at the place where the pillion seat is connected to the frame of the vehicle.
- For cars, the chassis number can be located in many places. Common ones include the B-Pillar bottom on the driver side or in the hood above the cam cover.
What is VIN?
VIN or a Vehicle Identification Number is a 17-character identification code for cars. It includes codes to identify where the vehicle was made, who was the vehicle manufacturer, vehicle make and model, manufacturer security code and the serial number of the vehicle.
What is the engine number?
The engine of any vehicle is like its heart and is the most important part of it. It is also one of the most expensive parts of your vehicle. Whether a two-wheeler or a car, the engine number is engraved on the engine block. This is done for many reasons. The most common is to prevent the engine or the vehicle from being stolen. Then there is the fact the engines tend to be very strongly built and can survive even the worst of accidents. This makes identification of damaged vehicles possible, making life much easier for police and motor insurance companies.
How to find the engine number:
Regardless of the type of vehicle, you will always find that the
engine number is located on the engine.
- For two-wheelers like scooter or motorcycle, you will find the engine on the lower half of the engine block. In bikes, the number may be exposed and thus easy to find. In scooters, the engine number will be on the under-body panel or on the faring, so you might need a tool to check it.
- For cars, the engine number can be found by popping the bonnet and looking at the engine.
Always ensure that the engine number, chassis number and VIN of the vehicle remain intact. They are needed for car insurance or motorcycle insurance, both, at the time of policy purchase and insurance claims. If you are buying a used vehicle, make sure that these numbers are intact and match the registration document. It is best you know and memorizes these numbers, if possible.